KLM Royal Dutch Airlines has selected INFORM software to optimise workforce scheduling across its engineering & maintenance, cargo and ground services business units at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport.

The AI-powered ‘GroundStar (GS) WorkforcePlus’ software will be used to standardise planning in the three units, as well as to optimise shift schedules and extensively automate the planning process.

The cloud-based AI solution will replace a legacy solution developed in-house by KLM and will be integrated into the airline’s IT landscape. WorkforcePlus will map the rules and regulations of the Dutch Working Hours Act as well as company agreements for many KLM employees. With a high degree of automation, the system will incorporate these rules and regulations into seasonal and continuous shift planning, INFORM said.

Aachen, Germany-based INFORM already counts LATAM, Etihad and Lufthansa Technik among its customers.

KLM and INFORM have been working together for over 25 years in planning and real-time resource dispatching for logistics processes.

“Demand-driven and predictive workforce management is essential for KLM’s ongoing operations,” said KLM’s EVP information services & CIO Aart Slagt. “The transparency created by this flexible and future proof new system will simplify the necessary procedures. In line with this, the introduction of GS WorkforcePlus is centrally embedded in KLM’s AI and digitalisation strategy.”

INFORM’s CEO and head of workforce management Dr. Jörg Herbers commented: “We are pleased that we have now also been able to convince a significant customer in the Netherlands with our adaptable system. With our AI technology, we are able to individually consider complex and diverse requirements of large companies and regionally applicable regulations. For KLM, we are adapting our optimisation procedures to reflect the specific conditions at Schiphol.”